Compass Error Correction: Azimuth Calculation Explained

The azimuth calculation for compass error involves determining the difference between the true azimuth and the magnetic azimuth.

1. Determine the true azimuth: This is the actual direction or bearing from your current location to the target location. It can be calculated using various methods, such as using a map and a protractor or using GPS coordinates.

2. Determine the magnetic declination: This is the angle between true north and magnetic north. It varies depending on your location and can be found on topographic maps or by using online tools or smartphone apps.

3. Determine the magnetic azimuth: Subtract the magnetic declination from the true azimuth. If the magnetic declination is east, subtract it from the true azimuth. If it is west, add it to the true azimuth.

4. Adjust for compass error: If you know the compass error, which is the amount by which your compass readings differ from the actual magnetic values, you need to apply a correction. If the compass consistently reads higher than the actual magnetic values, subtract the compass error from the magnetic azimuth. If the compass consistently reads lower, add the compass error to the magnetic azimuth.

The resulting value will be the corrected azimuth, accounting for both magnetic declination and compass error.